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Observation: White Pine

Observation Date
1/8/2020
Observer Name
Drew Keeve, Katherine Buhl
Region
Salt Lake » Little Cottonwood Canyon » White Pine
Location Name or Route
Lower White Pine
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Alternating between S-2 and S-5 for most of the morning, but with minimal wind transport and low density. New snow was running long and fast on wind and sun affected slopes; sensitive but non-hazardous as of now.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
As in most areas of the Wasatch, the White Pine area has recently been prone to wind-loading in varying directions. This is evident in ridgetop cornice formation, contradicted by signs of wind transport back to typically windward (SW) aspects. No apparent active loading; previous loading is the concern at mid/high-elevation terrain.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,400'
Comments
Relatively good cohesion in the main body of the snowpack. As we move into an active weather pattern, our main concern for north-facing terrain could be the near surface facets beneath new snow, especially if this new snow forms a cohesive, wind-effected layer.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate